Wednesday, May 15, 2013

God of Carnage

Curious Theatre: 4/25 – 6/8

In recent seasons Curious Theatre has sometimes failed to
entice this reviewer with its decisions about which plays to produce.Probably well-intentioned decisions have
depended on how much was in the coffers balanced by the desire to help young or
struggling playwrights. However… when Curious gets to the linch pin of their
season… as in “Red”or “God of
Carnage" the company sparkles and shines. Yasmina Reza’s “God of Carnage” is a
powerfully well-written piece.It’s wise beyond words and speaks volumes about one of the primary
reasons for violence on our playgrounds as well as reminding us of the rampant
narcissism that pervades our society. Even with its land mines exploding with
comic schtick director Chip Walton manages to provide his audience with a
balanced, ordered and exhilarating evening of theatre. The very fine ensemble includes: Karen Slack, Dee Covington,
Timothy McCracken and Erik Sandvold. McCracken gets to play one of the most
annoying characters in memory. (A cell phone is involved.)

This production should show well at the Henrys and you, dear
reader, would do well to show up for an evening with “The God of Carnage.”